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BMW M135i concept for Geneva motor show revealed

February 22, 2012

The BMW M135i concept is expected to have more than 300 hp. Photo by BMW

BMW is set to crown its second-generation 1-series lineup with an exciting new 300-hp-plus, six-cylinder M135i model pictured here in lightly veiled concept guise ahead of a public premiere at the Geneva motor show.

The Audi RS3-rivaling hatchback, planned for European sale before the end of 2012, forms part of BMW's new M Performance lineup, joining the recently revealed M550d xDrive sedan and touring, the X5 M50d and the X6 M50d.

It is also the first three-door version of BMW's second-generation 1-series that is set to be sold from mid-year on with the same range of four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines as its more practical five-door sibling across Europe. While not a full-fledged M-car, the M135i draws heavily on the year-old M135i coupe, sharing its engine and gearbox among other go-fast components.

Full details are yet to be revealed, but BMW insiders hint that the hatchback's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter, inline six-cylinder engine--the M54S as it is known internally--kicks out nearly 320 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque.

Unlike the rear-wheel-drive-only M135i coupe, though, Autoweek can reveal that BMW plans to offer the new M135i hatchback with both standard rear-wheel drive and optional four-wheel drive.

Munich's new hyper hatch is expected to deliver performance comparable to that of the M135i coupe--0-to-62-mph acceleration in 4.9 seconds, 0 to 124 mph in 17.3 seconds and a top speed limited to 155 mph.

There's also a heavily reworked suspension with wider tracks, a lower ride height and larger 18-inch wheels than on standard 1-series models. The brakes also are upgraded, with 14.2-inch steel rotors up front and 13.8-inch units at the rear.

As previewed by the concept set to appear at Geneva, the M135i will receive a distinctive body kit to differentiate it from other less powerful three-door 1-series hatchback models. Included is a deeper front bumper boasting typical M division styling cues, LED-imbued headlamps, unique mirror housings, wider sills under the doors and a substantial rear bumper featuring a black lower section and twin tailpipes.